Young star shines in Ballroom and Latin dance
A talented Roodies learner shines in ballroom and Latin dance competitions and is already a South African champion at a young age.
At just 11 years old, Mieke Pienaar, a learner at Laerskool Roodekrans, is already making waves and capturing hearts with her ballroom and Latin dance skills.
Guided by internationally recognised coach Jumah Mohammed, Mieke began competing in 2023, and her results already speak volumes.
She became a South African champion in both ballroom and Latin that year and was awarded Gauteng Colours through the South African Artistic Dance Association (SAADA).
She has since moved beyond her grade section, competing in both Rising Star and Championship levels, with standout performances such as placing first in both ballroom and Latin at the 2023 South African Championships in Durban under the South African Dance Federation banner.
“This year I’m currently competing in the novice and open-level categories, and I’m not only mastering the traditional 10-dance syllabus [Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, Quickstep, Cha-Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, and Jive] but I’m also training in American Smooth Ballroom, which broadens my foundation for international future competitions.
“In my spare time, I balance between academic responsibilities, family life, and a variety of other activities, including netball, shot put, and a second dance genre once or twice a week, and I’m very grateful for the support I’ve received from my family,” she said.
Jumah spoke of how it was such a joy to witness Mieke finding her voice through dance.
“She began as a quiet, reserved girl, and now she’s blossoming on and off the floor. Mieke is part of a bigger mission to raise the standard of ballroom and Latin dance in South Africa, and she’s already leading the way,” he said.
This rising star is currently preparing for upcoming provincial and national competitions, including her goal to once again receive Gauteng colours and compete in other provinces.
